Enid, Oklahoma — Wheatheart Nutrition Project is facing a volunteer shortage at its Enid location.
Wheatheart provides a place for about 100 people ages 60 and older to mingle, socialize and dine with friends.
“We provide lunches for people who can come into the facility, eat, play bingo, do puzzles and do different social activities,” Wheatheart Outreach Coordinator Terry Daines said.
Wheatheart also delivers hot lunches to people who are too sick to leave their homes.
“Right now, they have to meet our guidelines, and if they want delivery, they can’t go out and have to get help from someone to get the delivery,” Daines said, “but anyone over the age of 60 can stop by our facility and pick up their lunch.”
For those who receive parcels, deliveries can be a lifeline to life outside the home.
“I think that’s really important because for some of our couriers, we’re the only ones we see Monday through Friday,” Daines said, “so we’re the only ones keeping an eye on them, and it gives them a little bit of socialization.”
Wheatheart has 13 locations in eight counties across Oklahoma, serving more than 750 people statewide.
The meals are free, but recipients can make a donation to the organization if they’re able.
In addition to providing a hot lunch and opportunities for socializing, Wheatheart helps clients connect with services such as dentures, eyeglasses and handicap ramps.
Providing these services is a labour intensive task that requires volunteer help, and currently Wheatheart needs at least three new volunteers for the Enid service to cover four routes. The biggest need is delivery drivers, but there are other volunteer opportunities available.
“Some people will volunteer at the venue and help distribute food to the devotees who come,” Daines said.
Enid is located at the Booker T. Washington Community Center, 801 S. Pastor Alfred Baldwin Jr. Way.
Meals are served Monday through Friday from 11:15 a.m.
